Diann Daniel’s 15 pictures from Google Earth (GE) showcases the power of GE, and the images are indeed interesting. NOTE: Evidently these pics was removed – Mack

Seven images show the Firefox browser circle cut into a crop field (UFO style) and other large-scale animals and objects. The slide show includes commentary and the coordinates of each image. If you’re in a hurry, I recommend images 5 through 10.

GE, according to Google, “lets you fly anywhere on Earth to view satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings, from galaxies in outer space to the canyons of the ocean. You can explore rich geographical content, save your toured places, and share with others.”

Google. That alone is a mouthful. “Google” is French for “watches you intently and tattles.”

All the EULAs that you have to accept, such as “Google’s Terms and Conditions, Google Earth’s Privacy Policy* and Google Chrome’s Privacy Policy* (if you choose to install it).” Does anyone EVER read all those? Many times I have not installed free software because of the OTHER stuff it also installs or because the policy clearly states that the company keeps EVERYTHING about you forever (like Gmail and Facebook), even after you delete your account.

* Is this a privacy or piracy policy?

GE requires the installation of Google Updater. This software, in addition to updating the software that googles you it “runs software that’s been installed.” Interesting.

So should you avoid installing GE? That’s for you to decide–just be aware of the trade-offs you’re making. You probably already have Gmail anyway, and maybe Google Apps, so you may already be on the hook.

Google Moon

If you like GE, you might also enjoy Google Moon (GM), which does not require a download. GM is billed as a “mosaic of landing site images and a tour of the Apollo landings,” along with data regarding the missions.

When GM first appeared, when you zoomed in all the way on the moon, the final image was cheese, but I could no longer find it (rats!).